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Tuesday, August 5, 2025
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Vice President Nalumango Commends Economic Governance Training For Cabinet Ministers

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Vice President Mutale Nalumango has lauded the recently concluded Economic Governance Training Workshop for Cabinet Ministers, emphasizing its role in shaping government policy decisions and strategic interventions. Addressing ministers at the closing ceremony of the four-day training workshop in Lusaka, Ms. Nalumango underscored the invaluable insights gained from comprehensive discussions and analysis of various aspects of economic governance.

The Vice President highlighted the significance of exploring crucial elements of economic governance vital for the country’s development and prosperity. She stressed the importance the government places on ministerial training, urging ministers to leverage the skills and knowledge acquired to provide effective leadership and oversight in their respective portfolios.

“Our commitment is to leave a positive footprint in the development of the country, necessitating a holistic approach to economic governance,” Ms. Nalumango affirmed, emphasizing the collaborative efforts required across sectors to drive economic growth and job creation. She called for increased collaboration and coordination among sectors to achieve the country’s economic transformation agenda.

Minister of Livestock and Fisheries, Makozo Chikote, echoed the sentiment, noting the training’s role in emphasizing the importance of collaboration in achieving economic growth. He highlighted the review of service delivery and governance in public sectors as integral components of the training, expressing satisfaction with its outcomes.

Former Secretary to the Cabinet, Leslie Mbula, emphasized the training’s importance in acquainting ministers with the operations of the public service machinery. Mr. Mbula stressed the necessity for ministers to not only understand but also effectively implement the knowledge gained, urging them to share their insights with subordinates within their ministries.

“What remains now is for these ministers to ensure they realize what they have learned here, pass it on to others so that the vision can be realized,” Mr. Mbula stated, underlining the imperative of knowledge dissemination within ministries.

The Economic Governance Training Workshop stands as a testament to the government’s commitment to capacity building and effective governance, setting the stage for informed decision-making and coordinated efforts towards national development goals.

Mwape Upbeat Ahead of Ghana Olympic Clash

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Zambia Shepolopolo coach Bruce Mwape is upbeat ahead of Friday’s Paris 2024 Olympics third round, first leg qualifier against the Black Queens of Ghana in Accra.

Mwape has carried 23 Stars players to the west African country following the arrival of midfielders Hellen Chanda and Misozi Zulu from Turkey on Tuesday.

Mwape has assured Zambians of a good result against Ghana.

“I am sure all the Zambians are expecting a good result because the team has been doing well. The Zambians should expect a good result,” Mwape said on arrival in Ghana.

Friday’s match will be played at the Accra Sports Stadium at 19h00CAT.

The second leg will follow at the Levy Mwanawasa stadium in Ndola on 28 February, 2024 at 18h00.

It an embarrassment for Zambia to be poor despite its mineral wealth – MUZ President

Mine Workers Union of Zambia (MUZ) President Joseph Chewe says it is embarrassing that Zambia has been classified as a poor country despite being rich in minerals that include gold, emerald,copper, manganese and cobalt.

Mr. Chewe has advised that Zambia should properly harness its abundant mineral resources to end poverty.

He said Zambia should learn from Middle East countries that have utilised oil to create national wealth.

“Look at how the Arabs have harnessed their wealth through oil.Where have we gone wrong as a country? We have copper and copper as we speak today is one of the minerals that is being used in this energy transition and we must leverage on these benefits and be counted that these minerals copper and manganese can end poverty in our country,” Mr. Chewe told Radio Icengelo News.

“We need to become like Arabs who have harnessed the wealth very well in terms of minerals. We call upon all Zambians that we need to show the next generation that these minerals God has given us must end poverty,” he said.

Mr. Chewe warned that foreigners have been abusing local minerals.

“It is very embarrassing that we can be classified as a poor nation in the midst of abundance, when those countries calling us poor have no minerals. This is very embarrassing so I think as a country we need to come out of these doldrums and change the way this country is classified by utilising our mineral resources and creating more jobs. The mining sector can absorb many unemployed graduates like it used to happen during ZCCM days,” he said.

Former President Lungu shocked by DEC allegations and media reports

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Zambia’s Sixth President, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu has expressed shock at the false allegations by the Drug Enforcement Commission that they have nabbed his driver or former driver for trafficking in cannabis.

The former President says he has never had a driver named Juvensio Mathews Phiri under State House or under officers attached to his office from the Zambia Police.

He has called on the Drug Enforcement Commission(DEC) Director General, Mr. Nason Banda to show minimum decency and professionalism.

Former President Lungu has called on public institutions to remain professional despite the political pressure they receive from desperate leaders who are engaged in attempting to tarnish his name or his legacy.

The Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) issued a statement stating that its officers in Eastern Province arrested former president Edgar Chagwa Lungu’s Driver and Security personnel, identified as Juvensio Mathews Phiri, male aged 53, for trafficking in 55.6 Kg of loose cannabis.

President Lungu has also called on the media to be professional despite the current political pressure, the state of shrunk democratic space, and reject the temptation or allure of making them as paid voices to parrot government propaganda.
He gave an example where he called on the Implementation of quality education in Zambia and the need NOT to sacrifice quality education in the name of free education, a statement that has grossly and falsely been reported that he called for the cancellation of the free education policy.

President Lungu said Zambia was facing a serious crisis with the challenges of the economy, disease outbreaks and the worst cost of living in many decades.

He said Zambia was also facing the threat of food insecurity following the drought caused by the El Niño weather effect and the wanton maize exports that was done without due consideration the national strategic maize reserves.
He said the concerns about food security was so serious that it may worsen the current economic conditions if not dealt with adequately.

He called on the Government of President Hakainde Hichilema to concentrate on delivering service to the people of Zambia and resolving the various crises facing the nation than his efforts concentrating of attempting to destroy democracy and the Opposition in Zambia.

Issued by;
Amb. Emmanuel Mwamba
Chairperson of Information and Publicity
Member of the Central Committee
PATRIOTIC FRONT

PeP Leader Sean Tembo Pleads Not Guilty To Insulting Language

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Opposition Patriots for Economic Progress (PeP) leader Sean Tembo has taken a fresh plea of not guilty to two charges of insulting language Contrary to Section 179 of the Penal Code Chapter 87 of the Laws of Zambia.

Mr Tembo took a fresh plea after the state amended the indictment which had errors.

Particulars of the offence are that on August 27, 2023 in Lusaka District did use insulting language against the President of the Republic of Zambia Mr Hakainde Hichilema.

In count two, on October 17, 2023, Mr Tembo used insulting language which he referred to the Head of State Mr Hichilema.
Lusaka Resident Chief Magistrate Davies Chibwili has adjourned the matter to March 28, 2024 for commencement of trial.

United Kingdom Foundation Pledges Support For Zambia’s Early Childhood Development And Education

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In an effort towards bolstering early childhood development and education in Zambia, a delegation led by Ms. Jamie Anne Cooper, President of Big Win Philanthropy, met with President Hakainde Hichilema and his administration to discuss a collaborative initiative. The project, focused on nurturing the youth of Zambia, particularly in Chongwe and Lusaka, has garnered the endorsement of President Hichilema, who emphasized the pivotal role of investing in children for the future of the nation.

During the meeting held at State House, President Hichilema reiterated his government’s commitment to providing essential amenities and education to children nationwide, underscoring the importance of instilling a culture of hard work and responsibility among the youth. He expressed a resolute determination to combat moral decay and cultivate a society grounded in values and principles, both domestically and on a global scale.

Endorsing the initiative, President Hichilema highlighted the crucial role of early childhood development and education in shaping a disciplined and orderly society aligned with Zambia’s aspirations. He emphasized the necessity of ensuring the success of the project, urging for its expansion beyond Lusaka and Chongwe to benefit a broader spectrum of citizens across the country.

Ms. Cooper, representing Big Win Philanthropy, affirmed the organization’s commitment to aligning the program with the government’s objectives for early childhood development and education. The collaborative effort aims to harness resources and expertise to realize Zambia’s vision of nurturing responsible and empowered citizens from a young age.

Education Minister Douglas Syakalima emphasized the critical importance of the first thousand days of a child’s life for their holistic development, further underscoring the significance of investing in early childhood initiatives.

The pledge of support from Big Win Philanthropy represents a significant stride towards advancing early childhood development and education in Zambia, signaling a collective effort between government and philanthropic organizations to secure a brighter future for the nation’s youth.

Conistitutional Amendments To Be Comprehensive ,Not Piecemeal – Nalumango

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In a decisive statement delivered in Parliament, Vice President Mutale Nalumango clarified the government’s stance on constitutional amendments, emphasizing that any proposals for amendments will not be pursued in a piecemeal fashion. Mrs. Nalumango articulated that while recommendations for certain amendments, such as delimitation, exist, the government intends to address multiple non-contentious provisions simultaneously for greater efficiency and consensus-building.

Addressing the legislative body, Vice President Nalumango asserted that the government is committed to fostering consensus by presenting proposed amendments that garner agreement from all parties represented in the House. This approach, she emphasized, is essential to ensuring that constitutional reforms reflect the collective will and interests of the Zambian populace.

Mrs. Nalumango also took the opportunity to dispel allegations leveled against the United Party for National Development (UPND), refuting claims that the party had previously rejected proposals for the country to engage in delimitation while in opposition. She clarified that the UPND’s refusal to support the delimitation proposal stemmed from its inclusion within the broader context of Bill 10, which contained additional amendments deemed regressive and incompatible with the party’s vision for progressive constitutional reform.

Cabinet Ministers Undergo Economic Governance Training

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President Hichilema emphasizes the importance of informed public service workers for economic transformation

In a bid to bolster efficiency within the governance system and drive productivity in both the public and private sectors, the Economic Governance Training for Cabinet Ministers was launched at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre. The initiative, spearheaded by President Hakainde Hichilema, aims to professionalize the civil service, a crucial component in delivering on promises made to the people of Zambia.

President Hichilema pointed out the significance of an informed and quality public service workforce in executing the economic transformation agenda set forth by his administration. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at the Mulungushi Conference Centre in Lusaka, he emphasized the pivotal role of information sharing among public servants as fundamental to economic development.

Conducted by the National Institute of Public Administration (NIPA), the training program for Cabinet Ministers in economic governance is anticipated to catalyze Zambia’s economic growth. President Hichilema articulated that his government’s vision is to translate clear policies and procedures into tangible economic progress, drawing parallels with nations like Singapore that have achieved remarkable economic growth within a relatively short span.

Highlighting 2024 as the year dedicated to economic expansion through job creation, President Hichilema stressed the necessity of a robust economy to sustain initiatives such as the free education policy introduced by his administration. He further underscored the interconnectivity of the energy sector with key sectors like mining, agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, affirming the government’s commitment to revitalizing the energy sector to bolster the Zambian economy.

NIPA Executive Director, Royson Mukwena, elucidated that the intensive four-day training program aimed to equip Cabinet Ministers with the necessary skills to navigate economic challenges and opportunities. Dr. Mukwena emphasized the pivotal role of Cabinet Ministers as key drivers of economic transformation and expressed confidence that the training would enhance their comprehension of economic dynamics.

Secretary to Cabinet, Patrick Kangwa, lauded NIPA’s efforts in fortifying the public service and commended the institution’s proactive steps towards capacity building. Kangwa highlighted NIPA’s introduction of virtual training sessions to accommodate a broader spectrum of public service workers, underscoring the institution’s commitment to fostering economic growth and transformation.

The Economic Governance Training for Cabinet Ministers marks a significant milestone in Zambia’s quest for economic revitalization, underlining the government’s dedication to empowering its workforce and fostering sustainable development.

Copper Queens Striker Norin Betani Dies

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The Football Association of Zambia (FAZ) is in mourning following the tragic passing of Norin Betani, a talented striker for both the Copper Queens and Indeni Roses. Betani’s untimely demise occurred on Wednesday morning at the University Teaching Hospital, where she had been undergoing treatment after being diagnosed with suspected malaria.

Reuben Kamanga, the General Secretary of FAZ, expressed profound sadness at Betani’s passing. He revealed that the player had reported to camp while feeling unwell, prompting immediate action from the team’s medical staff. Betani was swiftly taken to Kanyama Level One hospital for examination before being transferred to the University Teaching Hospital on their recommendation.

“It is with deep regret that we announce the passing of one of our female players, Norin Betani, who was part of the provisional squad for the upcoming match against Ghana,” Kamanga stated. “FAZ, along with the player’s family and her club, Indeni Roses, remained closely involved throughout her hospitalization.”

Details regarding Betani’s funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course, Kamanga assured. He also urged the football community to respect the privacy of the family during this difficult time.

The funeral service for Norin Betani is currently underway at her parents’ residence in Garden House, Lusaka. FAZ General Secretary Reuben Kamanga, along with members of the FAZ secretariat, visited the bereaved family to offer condolences and support.

Betani’s father expressed gratitude for FAZ’s gesture of solidarity and the assistance provided during his daughter’s illness.

Norin Betani was among the 30 players selected for the provisional squad for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games qualifier in Accra, underscoring her promising talent and dedication to the sport.

The Zambian football community joins hands in mourning the loss of Norin Betani, remembering her as not only a skilled athlete but also a cherished member of the football family.

Bruce Mwape Mourns Betani

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Zambia Shepolopolo coach Bruce Mwape has expressed his sadness over the death of striker Norin Betani.

According to FAZ, Betani died on Wednesday morning at the University Teaching Hospital after being diagnosed with suspected malaria while in camp with the Women’s Team in Lusaka.

Betani of Indeni Roses was in the Women’s National Team provisional squad for the Olympics qualifier against Ghana to be played this Friday in Accra.

“It is actually very sad especially that we are preparing for the game against Ghana in the Olympic qualifier. When we got the news it was early in the morning and all the players were very sad and even the coaching bench is very sad,” Mwape said on arrival in Ghana.

“This is something we never expected and looking at the player herself, she was a very promising player. The first time showed that she could be one of the players in the team,” he said.

Mwape concluded:”I pass my condolences to the family, I know the family is equally sad. We only hope there won’t be any friction because we don’t know what actually transpired with the player.”

The funeral is at Betani’s family home in Lusaka.

UPND Trustee Criticizes Former President Lungu’s Proposal To Scrap The Free Education Policy

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Grace Chivube, a National Trustee of the United Party for National Development (UPND), has strongly criticized former President Edgar Lungu’s purported plans to abolish the UPND Free Education Policy. Chivube emphasized that such a move would insult the intelligence of Zambian women and pose a significant burden, particularly on the girl child.

Ms. Chivube underscored the crucial role of education in national development, stating that quality education serves as the bedrock for progress in any society. She highlighted the importance of the Free Education Policy in empowering women and girls, especially in the face of challenges such as unwanted pregnancies.

According to Ms. Chivube, President Hakainde Hichilema’s decision to reintroduce Free Education was a gesture of gratitude to the Zambian people for their support and contributions, particularly in funding his education during his earlier years under Dr. Kenneth Kaunda and the United National Independence Party (UNIP).

Since the reintroduction of Free Education, Ms. Chivube noted a positive impact, with many women and girls seizing the opportunity to pursue education. She warned that any attempt to dismantle the policy would have adverse effects, potentially exacerbating issues such as youth involvement in criminal activities and unplanned pregnancies.

Ms. Chivube called upon former President Lungu to show self-respect and reconsider his stance on Free Education, recognizing its significance in empowering Zambian women and fostering national development.

President Hichilema Orders Flags at Half-Mast in Honor of Late Namibian President Geingob

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President Hakainde Hichilema has issued a directive for all flags in Zambia to be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect for the late President of Namibia, Hage Geingob. The announcement comes following the passing of Dr. Geingob on February 4, 2024, at the age of 82.

In accordance with President Hichilema’s decree, flags across the nation will be lowered to half-mast beginning February 21, and will remain so until Sunday, February 25, 2024.

Additionally, President Hichilema has declared two days of National Mourning in Zambia to coincide with the memorial and burial services of Dr. Geingob. The days of mourning are scheduled for Saturday, February 24, and Sunday, February 25, 2024.

Patrick Kangwa, Secretary to the Cabinet, confirmed that during these two days of National Mourning, Zambia will join the people of Namibia in mourning the loss of Dr. Geingob.

The decision to honor Dr. Geingob in this manner reflects Zambia’s solidarity with Namibia and acknowledges the significant contributions made by the late President to the region.

Former President Edgar Lungu’s Driver Arrested for Drug Trafficking

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Juvensio Phiri, a former driver and security personnel for ex-President Edgar Lungu, has been apprehended by the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) on charges of drug trafficking. According to Mwenge Mulenga, the Public Relations Manager for DEC, Phiri, aged 53, was arrested for trafficking 55.6 kilograms of loose cannabis.

Mulenga revealed that Phiri was apprehended in Lusaka’s Chelstone area by a joint team of DEC officers from Eastern and Lusaka Provinces. The team had trailed Phiri from Chipata, where he was transporting the contraband intended for distribution in Lusaka.

It is suspected that Phiri was collaborating with other individuals who managed to escape when he was initially intercepted in Eastern Province.

In an official statement, Mulenga declared that Phiri is currently detained in police custody and has been charged with trafficking in psychotropic substances.

Zambia Police Service Issues Warning Against Utterances on Secession of Territory

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The Zambia Police Service has issued a stern warning to individuals making careless utterances suggesting the secession of territory belonging to the Republic of Zambia. In a press statement released by Mr. Graphel Musamba, the Inspector General of Police, emphasized that Zambia is legally established as a unitary state, and any attempts to challenge or undermine this legal foundation are deemed irresponsible and a serious offense against the nation’s laws.

The statement expresses grave concern over recent statements made by certain individuals that border on treason, advocating for secession and questioning the integrity of the Republic of Zambia. The Zambia Police Service asserts its duty to uphold and enforce the laws of the nation, safeguarding the safety, security, and unity of Zambia.

With immediate effect, the Zambia Police Service has vowed to take decisive action against anyone found promoting or inciting any form of uprising or secession. Such individuals will face swift arrest and prosecution in accordance with Zambia’s laws. The statement underscores the gravity of these offenses and warns of severe consequences for those who engage in activities that threaten the peace and stability of the nation.

The Inspector General of Police issues a stern warning to individuals contemplating illegal actions to cease and desist immediately. The Zambia Police Service reiterates its commitment to maintaining law and order and emphasizes that any attempts to undermine the unity of the Republic will be met with the full force of the law.

The statement called upon all citizens to uphold the values of unity and nationalism that define Zambia.

Professor Clive Chirwa Presents Opposition to Sale of Mopani Shares

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Professor Clive Chirwa, renowned engineer and academic, has submitted a detailed opposition to the proposed sale of Mopani Copper Mines PLC shares during the upcoming ZCCM-IH Extraordinary General Meeting scheduled for 23rd February 2024 at 10:00hrs.

In his submission, Professor Chirwa vehemently opposes the proposal put forth by International Resources Holding RSC Limited to purchase 51% shares of Mopani for US$1.1 billion. Instead, he advocates for the retention of Mopani under 100% ownership by ZCCM-IH Plc, proposing a comprehensive plan for the revival of the mining company.

Highlighting his extensive experience as an engineer and his recent visit to Mopani’s Mufulira division, Professor Chirwa expressed dismay at the deteriorating state of the company and emphasized the need for national interest-driven regeneration efforts.

Contrary to claims that financial constraints are hindering Mopani’s revival, Professor Chirwa argued that the company possesses adequate funds within its current monetary framework to address its challenges. He presented calculations illustrating the potential revenue generation through increased production and value addition, emphasizing the profitability of retaining Mopani as a Zambian-owned entity.

Professor Chirwa’s proposal focuses on leveraging Mopani’s production capabilities to capture a significant share of the African market for copper wire, which presents a lucrative opportunity for revenue generation. He emphasized the importance of adopting a business model centered around mining, value addition, and sales to maximize profits and national benefits.

Concluding his submission, Professor Chirwa adamantly declared his opposition to the sale of Mopani shares, citing the company’s considerable wealth and potential for growth. He urged Mopani to prioritize collaboration with Zambian stakeholders to achieve production targets and enhance value addition, emphasizing the message: “Mopani Not For Sale!”